Wiper unit for a cleaning device and cleaning device

Abstract

A wiping unit (2) for a cleaning device (1), in particular a cleaning robot, such as a mopping or mop-vacuum robot, is proposed. The wiping unit (2) comprises a base body (9) and a cleaning cloth (10) attached to the base body. The wiping unit (2) has a spring element (14) that is attached to the base body and projects into a corner region (12) of the cleaning cloth in order to exert pressure on the corner region.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a wiping unit for a cleaning device, in particular a cleaning robot, according to the preamble of claim 1 and a cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 15.

[0002] Manually movable cleaning devices, in particular as mops or self-moving or self-propelled cleaning devices, in particular as (semi-)autonomous mopping robots and mopping-vacuum robots for cleaning surfaces such as floors, are known from the state of the art.

[0003] Such cleaning devices are typically equipped with a wiping unit for damp wiping the cleaning surface. The wiping unit has a base body to which a cleaning cloth is attached. The cleaning cloth is usually attached to the base body on the underside of the cleaning device. Before or during a cleaning process, the cleaning cloth can be moistened manually or automatically. The (moving) movement of the cleaning device moves the cleaning cloth over the surface to be cleaned, thus damply wiping the surface.

[0004] Dust and other dirt regularly accumulate and / or accumulate in corners and edges of rooms or cleaning surfaces, which is why thorough cleaning of these areas is particularly important.

[0005] A disadvantage of prior art cleaning devices is their insufficient wiping performance in corners and at the edges of the surface to be cleaned. Since the cleaning cloths are attached to the underside of the cleaning device, the external shape of the cleaning device determines the accessibility of the cleaning device and thus the cleaning cloth to the corners of the surface to be cleaned. If the contour of the cleaning device in the area of ​​the cleaning cloth does not match the contour of the corner, the cleaning cloth cannot be guided completely along the contour of the side walls in the corner area, resulting in no or insufficient cleaning in the corner.

[0006] The present invention is based on the object of providing a wiping unit and an improved, in particular self-propelled, cleaning device which are improved compared to the prior art, whereby a particularly good and uniform cleaning of corners and edges is enabled and / or improved, while at the same time a high mobility of the cleaning device is ensured.

[0007] The object underlying the invention is achieved by the wiping unit according to claim 1 or the cleaning device according to claim 15. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the subclaims.

[0008] The wiping unit according to the invention is intended for use in a cleaning device, in particular a cleaning robot.

[0009] A cleaning device according to the present invention is preferably a (partially) autonomous or self-propelled mopping robot or mopping-vacuum robot. In particular, a cleaning device within the meaning of the present invention is designed to clean a cleaning surface automatically or (partially) autonomously during a cleaning process. However, the term "cleaning device" within the meaning of the present invention also includes manually operated or guided cleaning devices, in particular for wet cleaning floors, such as mops or the like. However, the cleaning device within the meaning of the present invention can also be any other device for cleaning, processing, and / or maintaining surfaces, in particular floors. For example, polishing devices or robots or window cleaning devices or robots are also generally considered cleaning devices within the meaning of the present invention.

[0010] A wiping unit in the sense of the present invention is designed for wiping, in particular wet wiping, a cleaning surface, for example a floor, a facade, a window or the like.

[0011] For this purpose, the wiping unit comprises a particularly flat or disc-like base body that is connected or connectable to the cleaning device. The base body can also be an integral part of the cleaning device or the housing of the cleaning device. The wiping unit also comprises a cleaning cloth that is connected to the base body or is attached to the base body, preferably in a replaceable manner.

[0012] The cleaning cloth preferably has at least one corner region that is at least substantially rectangular. Particularly preferably, the cleaning cloth is at least substantially rectangular. This makes it possible to adequately clean corners and edge areas of the cleaning surface.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the wiping unit comprises a spring element that is, in particular, at least partially or in sections, flexible, yielding or elastic and / or elongated or finger-like. The spring element is attached to the base body and extends into the corner region of the cleaning cloth.

[0014] The spring element enables the wiping unit, in particular the cleaning cloth, to be movable, allowing the wiping unit to be guided along contours and / or adjusted in a targeted manner.

[0015] In particular, the spring element ensures that the wiping unit is designed to be flexible and / or bendable at least in sections, allowing the cleaning cloth to be guided along the contours of obstacles and boundaries of the cleaning surface, such as side walls. This improves cleaning.

[0016] In particular, the cleaning cloth can be kept flat or stretched flat, which prevents the formation of wrinkles within the cleaning cloth and allows the cleaning surface to be cleaned particularly evenly.

[0017] Due to the mobility and flexibility of the wiping unit or the cleaning cloth, the cleaning device can have particularly good mobility and maneuverability, which means that even hard-to-reach areas can be reliably cleaned without the cleaning device becoming jammed.

[0018] The spring element, in particular, forms an additional attachment point for the cleaning cloth. During a cleaning process, the cleaning cloth is then connected not only to the base body but also to the spring element.

[0019] Preferably, the spring element can apply pressure to the cleaning cloth during the cleaning process in the direction of the cleaning surface, thereby pressing the cleaning cloth, particularly the corner area, against the cleaning surface. This allows the cleaning cloth to be pressed against the cleaning surface at a further location, particularly at a location remote from the base body, allowing pressure to be exerted on the cleaning cloth even remote from the base body. At the same time, it is possible to improve accessibility and thus overall cleaning in corners.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, the cleaning cloth extends beyond the base body. In particular, at least the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth extends outward beyond the base body. This allows for a larger contact area between the cleaning cloth and the cleaning surface. Furthermore, corners and edge areas can also be reliably cleaned. The cleaning effect in corners is then no longer determined or limited by the external shape of the cleaning device.

[0021] In particular, it is provided that the spring element presses against the cleaning cloth in the corner area and / or is pre-tensioned by the cleaning cloth. In particular, the cleaning cloth can be pre-tensioned in a plane arranged perpendicular to the cleaning surface. In this way, a pressure that is advantageous for cleaning can be exerted on the cleaning cloth and thus on the cleaning surface. Pressure can then also be exerted on the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth during the cleaning process in such a way that the cleaning cloth is pressed against the cleaning surface in the corner area. If the corner area is guided along the contour of a corner bordering the cleaning surface or of an obstacle, a good cleaning effect can be ensured even in corners and edge areas.

[0022] Preferably, the side of the base body facing the cleaning cloth defines a main plane, wherein the main plane is arranged parallel to the cleaning surface and / or to the underside of the housing of the cleaning device in the state of use.

[0023] The spring element preferably extends beyond the main plane and / or is offset from the main plane, in particular such that the spring element is pretensioned perpendicular to the main plane and / or pushes the cleaning cloth away from the main plane in the corner area. The cleaning cloth can thus be pressed toward the cleaning surface by the spring element in a particularly simple design in order to generate a pressure suitable and / or sufficient for cleaning. In particular, pressure can be built up in the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth in this way, whereby a good cleaning effect can be achieved even in corners during a cleaning process.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the spring element can be pre-tensioned parallel to the main plane, particularly outward relative to the cleaning device, which can particularly effectively prevent the cleaning cloth from wrinkling during cleaning and the associated uneven cleaning by the cleaning cloth. In this way, the spring element can pull the cleaning cloth apart in the corner area, keeping the cleaning cloth particularly wrinkle-free during the cleaning process in corners. This can improve overall cleaning performance.

[0025] If the spring element comes into contact with a side wall or other obstacle, for example, when the cleaning robot rotates in a corner, it can be moved or bent inward parallel to the main plane. The spring element presses the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth further against the cleaning surface. The movement of the spring element ensures that the spring element holds the cleaning cloth as far out as possible in corners and when it comes into contact with obstacles, parallel to the main plane, enabling optimal cleaning in the corresponding corners and edge areas.

[0026] To ensure uniform and reliable force transmission between the spring element and the cleaning cloth, the spring element, in particular a free end of the spring element, is preferably connected to the cleaning cloth in a form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. In particular, the cleaning cloth can have a receptacle for at least partially receiving the spring element or the free end. The spring element then preferably engages at least with its free end into the receptacle of the cleaning cloth.

[0027] As already explained, the spring element is designed to be at least partially or sectionally flexible.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the wiping unit, in particular the spring element, can have a joint, preferably wherein the spring element is connected to the base body by means of the joint. Due to the joint, the spring element has at least one (kinematic) degree of freedom. However, it is also possible to provide a joint with more than one degree of freedom.

[0029] The spring element is preferably pivotable or attachable to the base body by means of the joint. It is then possible to pivot the spring element and thus change the force acting on the cleaning cloth and / or change or adjust the direction of the force acting on the cleaning cloth.

[0030] In particular, it can be provided that the spring element is pivotable at least substantially within or parallel to the main plane.

[0031] An external force acting on the spring element can then cause the spring element to pivot inward within the main plane, for example when the cleaning device rotates in corners or upon contact with an obstacle. The spring element can then be pivoted against the preload into a deflected position in which the spring element does not pull the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth apart, or pulls it apart to a lesser extent, and / or is pressed against the base body. Once the force is removed, the spring element can pull the cleaning cloth apart again. This means that the cleaning cloth is always guided directly past the contours of obstacles or side walls bordering the cleaning area, ensuring reliable cleaning even in corners.

[0032] According to another aspect, the joint is designed as a film hinge. Film hinges are inexpensive and easy to manufacture. At the same time, a long and reliable service life can be ensured.

[0033] Preferably, the base body and the spring element are formed as a single piece. In particular, the base body, the joint, and the spring element are formed as a single piece, thereby minimizing the complexity of the wiping unit.

[0034] Particularly preferably, the base body, the spring element, and / or the joint are made of a plastic, in particular a thermoplastic. In this way, the base body, the spring element, and / or the joint, which is particularly designed as a film hinge, can be manufactured in a single injection molding process, thereby ensuring fast and cost-effective production with particularly high dimensional accuracy, even for large quantities.

[0035] In particular, it is provided that the spring element is designed to be more flexible than the base body. The spring element is then preferably elastically deformable and allows greater elastic deformation than the base body. Due to its greater flexibility, the spring element can be preloaded and bendable even without the use of a joint. When a joint is used, the flexibility of the joint can support the pivotability of the spring element, thereby improving overall mobility and increasing the preload. The different flexibility can be achieved by using a different material, a different structural design, or the like.

[0036] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the wiping unit has several, in particular two, spring elements. The spring elements can each be assigned to different corner areas or to the same corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth.

[0037] If two spring elements are assigned to a corner area, the spring elements can be arranged parallel to each other and attached offset to the base body. Alternatively or additionally, the spring elements can extend into the corner area from different directions. In particular, the spring elements or the longitudinal axes of the spring elements can form an angle of at least substantially 90° to each other in the pre-tensioned state. In both cases, the force pulling the corner area apart and the force pressing the cleaning cloth onto the cleaning surface can be increased, thereby improving overall cleaning.

[0038] According to a further preferred embodiment, the spring elements are stacked on top of each other in a fan-like configuration and / or connected to the base body via a common joint. This allows for a flat pressing of the cleaning cloth onto the cleaning surface in the area of ​​the spring elements.

[0039] The fan-like design allows the spring elements to be at least partially pushed over one another when a spring element or spring elements come into contact with an obstacle from the side in such a way that an external force directed parallel to the main plane acts on the spring element or spring elements. In this way, the spring element and thus the cleaning cloth can be guided around the contour of the obstacle by the spring elements and thus the cleaning cloth being pushed together at least substantially along the main plane. Once the contact is removed, the spring elements can be automatically pushed apart in a fan-like manner due to the pretension and pull the corner area of ​​the cleaning cloth apart.

[0040] A further aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, relates to a cleaning device with a proposed wiping unit. By using the proposed wiping unit in a cleaning device, corresponding advantages can be achieved. In particular, the cleaning effect in corners can be improved.

[0041] In this respect, reference may be made to all statements relating to the proposed wiping unit.

[0042] The aforementioned aspects, features and method steps or variants of the present invention as well as the aspects, features and method steps or variants of the present invention resulting from the claims and the following description can in principle be implemented independently of one another, but also in any desired combination or sequence.

[0043] Further aspects, advantages, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the figures. It shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a proposed cleaning device with a proposed wiping unit; Fig. 2 a schematic view of the cleaning device from Fig. 1 in a side view in a state raised from the cleaning surface; Fig. 3 a schematic view of the cleaning device from Fig. 1 in a side view in a state resting on the cleaning surface; Fig. 4 a perspective view of the wiping unit from Fig. 1 ; Fig. 5 a schematic view of the wiping unit from Fig. 4from above; Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a proposed wiping unit according to a further embodiment from above; Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a proposed wiping unit according to a further embodiment from above; and Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a proposed wiping unit according to a further embodiment from above.

[0044] In the figures, some of which are not to scale and are merely schematic, the same reference symbols are used for identical, identical or similar parts and components, whereby corresponding or comparable properties and advantages are achieved, even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0045] Fig. 1 shows schematically a proposed cleaning device 1 with a proposed wiping unit 2 from above. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 show the cleaning device 1 with the wiping unit 2 schematically in a side view.

[0046] The cleaning device 1 is preferably self-propelled. However, it is also possible for the cleaning device 1 to be non-self-propelled or to be manually movable, in particular by hand.

[0047] The cleaning device 1 is preferably used in an interior of a building or for cleaning a cleaning surface F of an interior. However, it is also fundamentally possible to use the cleaning device 1 in an outdoor space / area or for cleaning a cleaning surface F of an outdoor space or area.

[0048] The cleaning device 1 is preferably designed as a mopping robot and / or vacuuming robot and / or mopping-vacuum robot, hereinafter collectively referred to as a mopping robot, or is designed to automatically or autonomously travel over a cleaning surface F during one or more cleaning processes in order to clean the cleaning surface F, in particular to wipe and / or vacuum it. In particular, the cleaning device 1 is designed to wipe the cleaning surface F with a damp cloth or with the aid of a cleaning liquid. In addition, the cleaning device 1 can be designed to vacuum suction material or air together with suction material from the environment or from the cleaning surface F.

[0049] A cleaning process within the meaning of the present invention is preferably a process in which the cleaning surface F is cleaned by means of the cleaning device 1 and / or in which the cleaning device 1 cleans a cleaning surface F, in particular by wiping and / or vacuuming it.

[0050] Preferably, the cleaning surface F is formed by a floor. However, it is also possible for another surface, such as a window or a facade, to have or form the cleaning surface F.

[0051] The cleaning device 1 has a housing 3 and several, in this case two, electric motor-driven wheels 4, in particular for independent driving.

[0052] The cleaning device 1 is particularly designed to move in a main direction of movement X. A movement in the main direction of movement X is understood here as a forward movement of the cleaning device 1.

[0053] In particular, the cleaning device 1 is also designed to travel counter to the main direction of movement X, in particular backwards, in order to be able to reach even poorly accessible corners or areas of the cleaning surface F and / or to maneuver out of narrow spaces.

[0054] The housing 3 preferably has a bottom side 3A and a top side 3B. The bottom side 3A and the top side 3B are preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to each other.

[0055] In particular, the bottom side 3A and the top side 3B have at least substantially the same shape. However, it is also possible for the bottom side 3A and the top side 3B to have different shapes and / or not be aligned parallel to each other.

[0056] In the state of use or during a cleaning process, the underside 3A is preferably aligned at least substantially parallel to the main direction of movement X and / or to the cleaning surface F.

[0057] In the context of the present invention, the term "use state" refers to the state of the cleaning device 1 during a cleaning process.

[0058] The housing 3 is preferably box-shaped or cuboid-shaped, in particular wherein the housing 3 has a curved side, in particular rear side or rear wall.

[0059] Preferably, the underside 3A and / or the top side 3B is / are formed from a circular segment and a rectangle immediately adjacent to the intersection line of the circular segment. However, other shapes are also possible. For example, the underside 3A and / or the top side 3B can also be circular, polygonal, or the like.

[0060] The housing 3 preferably also has a front side 3C and a rear side 3D relative to the main movement direction X of the cleaning device 1. In use or during a cleaning process, the front side 3C is arranged at the front and the rear side 3D is arranged at the rear relative to the main movement direction X.

[0061] The front side 3C can be designed as a substantially straight surface, in particular with rounded outer edges. However, other shapes, such as a curved shape, are also possible.

[0062] The front side 3C can be oriented transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the main movement direction X, to the underside 3A and / or, in the use state, to the cleaning surface F. However, it is also possible for the front side 3C to have an angle to the cleaning surface F, to the underside 3A and / or to the main movement direction X, wherein the angle is greater or less than 90°.

[0063] The rear side 3D of the housing 3 is preferably formed in a (circular) arc shape. However, the rear side 3D can also have a different shape.

[0064] The housing 3 further preferably has a first outer side 3E and a second outer side 3F, wherein the first and second outer sides 3E, 3F each extend at least substantially along the main movement direction X and / or transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the front side 3C and / or to the bottom side 3A or top side 3B. In particular, the first and second outer sides 3E, 3F each connect the front side 3C to the rear side 3D and / or the bottom side 3A to the top side 3B.

[0065] The first outer side 3E preferably forms the right side and the second outer side 3F the left side of the housing 3 with respect to the main direction of movement X.

[0066] The cleaning device 1 further comprises a navigation device 5, a data processing device 6, and / or a control device 7. The navigation device 5, the data processing device 6, and / or the control device 7 are preferably arranged in the housing 3.

[0067] By means of the navigation device 5, the data processing device 6, the control device 7 and the wheels 4, the cleaning device 1 can orient itself and move independently / autonomously within an environment or on the cleaning surface F.

[0068] The cleaning device 1 preferably has an elongated or slot-like suction opening 8 on the underside 3A or a side facing the cleaning surface F, through which suction material and / or cleaning agent applied to the cleaning surface F can be picked up or sucked in.

[0069] The cleaning device 1 is preferably equipped with an electric motor-driven fan (not shown) and a collecting container (not shown) for the suction material.

[0070] The control device 7 is preferably designed to control the wheels 4 or the electric motors of the cleaning device 1 and / or the fan of the cleaning device 1, in particular to activate and / or deactivate them, and / or to adjust the power, preferably at least partially automatically.

[0071] In the case of a mop-vacuum robot or vacuum cleaner robot, the collected vacuumed material is separated from the air, for example by means of a filter (not shown), whereby the (cleaned) air can then be released back into the environment.

[0072] During cleaning operation or during a cleaning process, the fan can be used to suck in suction material or air and / or cleaning agent together with suction material from the environment or from the cleaning surface F into the cleaning device 1, in particular into the container, via the suction opening 8.

[0073] The cleaning device 1, in particular the navigation device 5, is preferably equipped with a plurality of sensors in order to detect the environment, in particular objects such as obstacles in the environment, and / or to determine the (relative) position of the cleaning device 1 in the environment, in particular by measuring the distance between the cleaning device 1 and reference points or objects in the environment.

[0074] The cleaning device 1, in particular the navigation device 5, preferably has one or more sensors, in particular distance sensors, for measuring the distance to objects in the environment and one or more sensors, in particular inertial sensors, for measuring the movement of the device itself, in particular the acceleration and / or speed.

[0075] The distance sensor is preferably designed as a laser distance sensor, in particular a lidar sensor, PMD sensor or time-of-flight sensor or radar sensor, or as an ultrasonic sensor.

[0076] How Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 As shown in detail, the cleaning device 1 is equipped with the wiping unit 2 for cleaning, in particular wet wiping, the cleaning surface F.

[0077] The wiping unit 2 has a base body 9 which is connected and / or connectable to the cleaning device 1, as Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 show.

[0078] Particularly preferably, the base body 9 is connectable to and detachable from the housing 3, in particular the underside 3A of the housing 3. In particular, the base body 9 can be connected to and detached from the housing 3 as often as desired to enable or simplify replacement or cleaning of the wiping unit 2.

[0079] Alternatively, it is also possible for the base body 9 to be an integral part of the housing 3 or to be formed by the housing 3, in particular the underside 3A.

[0080] The wiping unit 1, in particular the base body 9, is connected to the housing 3 in the state connected to the housing 3 preferably in the region of the rear side 3D and / or in a region of the underside 3A adjacent to the rear side 3D.

[0081] The wiping unit 1, in particular the base body 9, is preferably flat and / or disc-like.

[0082] The base body 9 has a bottom side 9A, which, when connected to the housing 3 or in the use state, faces the cleaning surface F. The bottom side 9A defines a main plane H, which, in the use state, is preferably arranged at least substantially parallel to the cleaning surface F. In particular, the bottom side 3A of the housing 3 can be arranged parallel to the main plane H.

[0083] The base body 9 preferably has an upper side 9B. The base body 9 can be positively and / or non-positively connected to the housing 3 via the upper side 3. For this purpose, the upper side 9B can have at least one connecting element.

[0084] The width of the base body 9 preferably corresponds to the width of the housing 3. The term "width" refers here to a direction perpendicular to the main movement direction X and parallel to the main plane H. However, the base body 9 can also be narrower than the housing 3.

[0085] The height of the base body 9 is preferably less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 5 mm. The term "height" in this case preferably refers to the direction perpendicular to the main plane H.

[0086] The shape of the base body 9 is preferably adapted to the contour of the housing 3 in the area of ​​the rear side 3D and / or the underside 3A. In particular, the base body 9 ends flush with the rear side 3D of the housing 3. Particularly preferably, the base body 9 does not protrude beyond the housing 3, thereby keeping the cleaning device 1 small and thus ensuring good accessibility of the cleaning device 1 in corners and corner areas. At the same time, a small housing 3 increases the maneuverability of the cleaning device 1.

[0087] The base body 9 can, in particular, have a circular segment-shaped, ring-segment-shaped, and / or circular sector-shaped base area. Other base areas, such as a rectangular or polygonal base area or the like, are also possible.

[0088] Furthermore, the wiping unit 2 has a cleaning cloth 10 for absorbing cleaning fluid and / or for wiping the cleaning surface F. The cleaning cloth 10 is preferably designed to be guided over the cleaning surface F and thus to wipe the cleaning surface F with a damp cloth.

[0089] The wiping unit 2 or the cleaning cloth 10 is arranged behind the suction opening 8 with respect to the main direction of movement X. In this way, the cleaning device 1 can first vacuum a section of the cleaning surface F while moving forward along the main direction of movement X and clean it of dust and other vacuumable contaminants before the vacuumed section of the cleaning surface F is damp-wiped using the cleaning cloth 10. The cleaning process thus leads to a particularly thorough cleaning of the cleaning surface F.

[0090] The wiping unit 2 or the cleaning cloth 10 is arranged behind the wheels 4 with respect to the main direction of movement X in order to avoid wheel marks.

[0091] The cleaning device 1 preferably has a moistening device 13 for moistening the cleaning cloth 10 with a liquid, in particular cleaning liquid, as shown schematically in Fig. 1indicated. By means of the moistening device 13, cleaning fluid can be supplied to the cleaning cloth 10 in order to moisten the cleaning cloth 10. In this way, the cleaning cloth 10 can be automatically kept moist, in particular consistently or evenly, during a cleaning process, thereby ensuring uniform cleaning throughout the entire cleaning process.

[0092] The cleaning cloth 10 is preferably made of natural or synthetic fibers. Alternatively, the cleaning cloth 10 may be made of paper or comprise paper.

[0093] The cleaning cloth 10 is preferably designed as a textile fabric or as a two-dimensional textile product. The cleaning cloth 10 can be a yarn-based textile fabric, for example, a warp-knitted fabric, a woven fabric, or a braided fabric. It is also possible for the cleaning cloth to be designed as a fiber-based fabric, for example, a nonwoven fabric.

[0094] In Fig. 4 The wiping unit 2 is shown in detail. The cleaning cloth 10 preferably has a rear, rectangular section and is adapted to the shape of the base body 9 in a front area, as Fig. 4 shows an example and is described in more detail below.

[0095] The cleaning cloth 10 preferably has a circumferential outer edge 11. The outer edge 11 has in particular a front edge 11A, a rear edge 11B, a first side edge 11C and a second side edge 11D relative to the main movement direction X, as Fig. 4 shows.

[0096] The cleaning cloth 10 is, in particular, directly connected to the base body 9. The connection between the cleaning cloth 10 and the base body 9 can be formed by a material fit, a form fit, and / or a force fit. Particularly preferably, the cleaning cloth 10 is connected to the base body 9 at least in the region of its front edge 11A. In this way, the cleaning cloth 10 is, on the one hand, securely and reliably connected to the base body 9. On the other hand, the freedom of movement of the cleaning cloth 10 necessary for the cleaning process can be ensured.

[0097] In particular, the cleaning cloth 10 is detachably connected to the base body 9, in particular to the underside 9A. Thus, the cleaning cloth 10 can be connected to the base body 9, in particular by means of a hook-and-loop fastener. Other detachable connections between the base body 9 and the cleaning cloth 10 are also possible, such as a snap fastener or a clamping connection.

[0098] Alternatively, the cleaning cloth 10 may also be non-removably connected to the base body 9. For example, it is possible for the cleaning cloth 10 to be firmly bonded to the base body 9, for example, by gluing.

[0099] The cleaning cloth 10 is preferably adapted at least in sections to the shape of the base body 9. The cleaning cloth 10 can be adapted to the shape of the base body 9, in particular in the region of its front edge 11A, as Fig. 4shows by way of example. In particular, the cleaning cloth 10 can be designed in the region of the front edge 11A to be at least substantially congruent with the base body 9 or a section of the base body 9.

[0100] The cleaning cloth 10 can have at least one corner region 12. The corner region 12 is preferably designed for cleaning corners and edge regions of the cleaning surface F. In particular, the corner region 12 can be rectangular for this purpose.

[0101] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the cleaning cloth 10 has two corner areas 12. The following explanations refer only to the Figures 4 to 8 corner region 12 shown on the left, which is formed between the rear edge 11B and the first side edge 11C. All embodiments can also apply analogously to the other corner region 12, which is formed between the rear edge 11B and the second side edge 11D.

[0102] The corner region 12 preferably has a corner which encloses an angle of at least substantially 90°.

[0103] In particular, the corner area 12 projects beyond the base body 9, as Fig. 4 to Fig. 8 show by example.

[0104] In addition, it is preferably provided that the corner region 12, in the state of use, preferably projects outwards from the housing 3 or projects beyond the housing 3.

[0105] In the context of the present invention, the term "projecting over" or "projecting beyond something" is to be understood as meaning that the housing 3 or the cleaning cloth 10, in a plan view, each extends over the edge of the other component in a direction parallel to the main plane H.

[0106] In the attached state, the cleaning cloth 10, in particular the rear edge 11B, preferably projects beyond the housing 3 opposite to the main direction of movement X. In particular, the cleaning cloth 10 projects beyond the rear side 3D of the housing 3.

[0107] The cleaning cloth 10 is preferably as wide as the housing 3. In particular, the cleaning cloth 10, when connected to the housing 3, can be flush with the first outer side 3E and / or the second outer side 3F or an extension of the first or second outer side 3E, 3F in a plan view.

[0108] According to the proposal, the wiping unit 2 has a spring element 14 for (pre-)tensioning the cleaning cloth 10 and / or for generating a force that presses the cleaning cloth 10 against the cleaning surface F and / or pulls the cleaning cloth 10 apart.

[0109] The spring element 14 is particularly designed to press the cleaning cloth 10 against the cleaning surface F to achieve even and effective cleaning. At the same time, the spring element 14 is designed to tension the cleaning cloth 10, particularly the corner region 12, to prevent the cleaning cloth 10 from wrinkling. As will be explained below, the cleaning cloth 10 can be guided directly along the contours of obstacles or side walls bordering the cleaning surface F by means of the spring element 14 in order to reliably clean corners, edge areas, and hard-to-reach areas of the cleaning surface F.

[0110] In particular, the spring element 14 holds or tensions the area of ​​the cleaning cloth 10 projecting beyond the housing 3, whereby the section of the cleaning cloth 10 projecting beyond the housing 3 is also pressed onto the cleaning surface F.

[0111] The spring element 14 is preferably designed to be flexible / elastic in whole or in part, or in sections, or has at least one flexible / elastic section. The spring element 14 can then be elastically deformed upon collision with an obstacle, allowing the wiping unit 2 or the cleaning cloth 10 to follow the contour of the obstacle particularly well.

[0112] This ensures that the spring element 14 presses the cleaning cloth 10 against the cleaning surface F to ensure effective cleaning. At the same time, the spring element 14 holds or fixes the corner area 12, thereby holding the cleaning cloth 10 via an additional fixation point.

[0113] In addition, the spring element 14 can tension the corner region 12, in particular parallel, to the main plane H, whereby a wrinkling of the cleaning cloth 10 can be prevented and the cleaning can be improved.

[0114] The spring element 14 is preferably elongated, finger-like, or lever-like. The spring element 14 extends in particular along a longitudinal axis L. The extension of the spring element 14 along the longitudinal axis L is preferably greater than the extension transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis L. Preferably, the extension of the spring element 14 along the longitudinal axis L is more than twice as large, preferably more than three times as large, more preferably more than five times as large as the extension of the spring element 14 transversely to its longitudinal axis L.

[0115] The spring element 14 preferably has an extension along the longitudinal axis L of at least 2 cm, more preferably of at least 4 cm, more preferably of at least 5 cm, and / or of less than 15 cm, more preferably of less than 13 cm, more preferably of less than 11 cm.

[0116] The extension of the spring element 14 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis L can be from 0.5 cm to 3 cm.

[0117] The spring element 14 is preferably attached to the base body 9 and projects into the corner area 12 of the cleaning cloth 10, as Fig. 4 shows by way of example. Alternatively, it is also possible for the spring element 14 to be an integral component of the cleaning cloth 10 or at least partially integrated into the cleaning cloth 10. Alternatively, the spring element 14 can also be a component of the housing 3 or directly connected to the housing 3.

[0118] The spring element 14 preferably has an L-shaped cross section relative to the longitudinal axis barrel ( Fig. 4). The spring element 14 has, in particular, a first leg 14A, which, in the use state, is arranged at least substantially parallel to the cleaning surface F and / or to the main plane H. A second leg 14B preferably extends from the first leg 14A and is arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the first leg 14A.

[0119] The spring element 14 is preferably designed and / or arranged such that the spring element 14, in particular the first leg 14A, presses against the cleaning cloth 10 in the corner region 12 and / or is pretensioned by the cleaning cloth 10. In particular, the spring element 14 presses the corner region 12 toward the cleaning surface F, whereby the cleaning cloth 10 is reliably pressed against the cleaning surface F even in the corner region 12. The cleaning effect can be improved in this way.

[0120] How Fig. 4As shown by way of example, the spring element 14 is preferably formed in one piece with the base body 9 and / or is an integral part of the base body 9. It is also possible for the spring element 14 to be formed as a separate component and to be or be connectable to the base body 9 in a materially bonded, positively bonded and / or non-positively bonded manner.

[0121] How Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 As shown by way of example, the spring element 14 is preferably fastened to an outer region of the base body 9 or connected thereto.

[0122] The spring element 14 preferably has a connecting section via which the spring element 14 is connected to the base body 9. In particular, the connecting section is thinner than the region of the spring element 14 adjacent to the connecting section and / or thinner than the region of the base body 9 adjacent to the connecting section. The connecting section can at least partially provide the flexibility or compliance of the spring element 14.

[0123] Preferably, the spring element 14 and the base body 9 are made of the same material, in particular plastic material.

[0124] Particularly preferably, the spring element 14 and the base body 9 are manufactured together in an injection molding process. This allows for dimensionally accurate and particularly reproducible production of the base body 9 and the spring element 14 at low cost.

[0125] The spring element 14 preferably has a height equal to or less than that of the base body 9, allowing the wiping unit 2 to be particularly flat. However, it is also possible for the spring element 14 to be taller than the base body 9. The term "height" in this case refers to the extension of the spring element 14 perpendicular to the main plane H and / or to the longitudinal axis L.

[0126] In Fig. 2 the cleaning device 1 is shown in a state in which the cleaning device 1 is lifted from the cleaning surface F and does not touch the cleaning surface F, in particular does not rest on it. As Fig. 2further shows, it is preferably provided that the spring element 14 extends beyond the main plane H and / or is offset from the main plane H, in particular when the cleaning device 1 does not rest on the cleaning surface F. In particular, the spring element 14 extends beyond the main plane H or is offset from the main plane H in such a way that the spring element 14 is prestressed perpendicular to the main plane H and / or presses the cleaning cloth 10 in the corner region 12 away from the main plane H.

[0127] How Fig. 2 further shows, the spring element 14 presses the cleaning cloth 10 or the corner area 12 away from the main plane H or the housing 3, in particular downwards.

[0128] The longitudinal axis L or the spring element 14 is / are preferably arranged obliquely to the main plane H and / or intersects the main plane H. In particular, the longitudinal axis L or the spring element 14 forms an angle with the main plane H, wherein the angle is preferably less than 45°, more preferably less than 30°, more preferably less than 20°, and / or more than 5°, preferably more than 10°.

[0129] Due to this arrangement, the spring element 14 presses at least the corner region 12 of the cleaning cloth 10 against the cleaning surface F during a cleaning process, whereby the contact pressure of the cleaning cloth 10 on the cleaning surface F can be increased and thus the cleaning can be improved, as will be explained below with reference to Fig. 3 will be explained later.

[0130] In Fig. 3The cleaning device 1 is shown in use, in which the cleaning device 1 rests on the cleaning surface F and cleans it. As the transition from Fig. 2 on Fig. 3 shows, the spring element 14 is bent or pivoted by the contact with the cleaning surface F in the direction of the main plane H. At the same time, the corner area 12 is pressed by the spring element 14 against the cleaning surface F, whereby a particularly good cleaning can be achieved. As Fig. 3 further shows, the cleaning cloth 10 preferably lies over its entire surface, in particular with its underside, against the cleaning surface F, so that the entire cleaning cloth 10 contributes to the cleaning or can be used.

[0131] The spring element 14 is preferably additionally or alternatively pretensioned parallel to the main plane H, in particular outwardly, in the figures toward the first outer side 3E, in particular such that the spring element 14 pulls the cleaning cloth 10 apart in the corner region 12. In this way, wrinkling of the cleaning cloth 10 during the cleaning process is prevented, whereby cleaning can be carried out by means of the flatly stretched cleaning cloth 10, which is pressed onto the cleaning surface F. In particular, a particularly uniform and effective cleaning of the cleaning surface F can be achieved.

[0132] In the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 In the embodiment shown, the spring element 14 extends at least substantially along the side edge 11C or the longitudinal axis L is arranged along the side edge 11C and / or parallel thereto.

[0133] However, the spring element 14 may alternatively extend along the rear edge 11B, as described with reference to Fig. 6 will be described in more detail below. The longitudinal axis L is then aligned / arranged along the trailing edge 11B.

[0134] The spring element 14 is preferably connected to the cleaning cloth 10 in a form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. In particular, the spring element 14 has a free end 14C that is connected and / or connectable to the cleaning cloth 10.

[0135] The spring element 14 or the free end 14C can be connected to the cleaning cloth 10, for example, by means of a hook-and-loop fastener. It is also possible for the spring element 14 to be glued, sewn, and / or connected to the cleaning cloth 10 in another way, for example, by means of a snap fastener.

[0136] In particular, the spring element 14 is connected to the cleaning cloth 10 via the first and / or second legs 14A, 14B. For example, the second leg 14B can be connected to the cleaning cloth 10 by means of a hook-and-loop fastener. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning cloth 10 can be connected to the first leg 14A by means of a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0137] In particular, it is provided that the cleaning cloth 10 has a, preferably pocket-shaped, receptacle for at least partially receiving the spring element 14, wherein the spring element 14, in particular the free end 14C, engages in the receptacle. In this way, a positive connection between the spring element 14 and the receptacle of the cleaning cloth 10 can be realized.

[0138] The spring element 14 preferably has a joint 15 for pivoting the spring element 14 relative to the base body 9. For this purpose, the spring element 14 is preferably connected to the base body 9 by means of the joint 15 as Fig. 4 to Fig. 8 show examples. In particular, the spring element 14, the joint 15, and the base body 9 are formed integrally with one another. However, it is also possible for the spring element 14 and the base body 9 to be formed as separate components and connected to one another by means of the joint 15.

[0139] In the event of a collision with an obstacle, the spring element 14 can be pivoted by means of the joint 15. The joint 15 is then preferably designed to pivot the spring element 14 parallel to the main plane H such that the spring element 14 follows the contour of the obstacle. The joint 15 ensures that the spring element 14, and thus the cleaning cloth 10, can follow the contour of the obstacle. In this way, reliable cleaning can be achieved with the help of the cleaning cloth 10, even in corners and edge areas.

[0140] How Fig. 4As shown by way of example, the joint 15 is preferably designed as a solid-state joint, in particular a film hinge. Film hinges are particularly cost-effective to manufacture. The film hinge enables reliable and durable pivoting of the spring element 14 relative to the base body 9. A film hinge can be manufactured cost-effectively, in particular, together with the base body 9 and the spring element 14 in a common injection molding process.

[0141] The joint 15 can also be designed according to a different joint shape.

[0142] The spring element 14, in particular the joint 15, is preferably designed to be more flexible than the base body 9, thereby enabling, in particular, elastic deformation of the spring element 14. At the same time, the base body 9 can be at least substantially undeformed or exhibit no deformation during an elastic deformation of the spring element 14.

[0143] It is also possible that the spring element 14 consists of a different, in particular more flexible, material than the base body 9.

[0144] The greater flexibility of the spring element 14 can alternatively or additionally be achieved by a lower material thickness of the spring element 14, in particular of the connecting section or the joint 15, compared to the base body 9 and / or by material recesses in the spring element 14. Alternatively or additionally, the base body 9 can have a stiffening structure, such as stiffening ribs, whereby the base body 9 can be stiffer and thus less flexible than the spring element 14. To achieve greater flexibility, it is also possible for the plastic of the spring element 14 to have a lower degree of cross-linking than the base body 9.

[0145] The flexibility or deformability of the spring element 14 means that the wiping unit 1 can deform elastically, at least in sections, upon collision with an obstacle.

[0146] If the spring element 14 comes into contact with an obstacle, such as a side wall, during a cleaning process, in particular when cleaning or driving through a corner, a force directed from the outside in the direction of the cleaning cloth 10 can act on the spring element 14, in particular parallel to the main plane H. The spring element 14 can be elastically deformed by the force parallel to the main plane H. In this way, the cleaning cloth 10 or the spring element 14 can perform a compensating movement in addition to the pivoting movement of the spring element 14. Due to the compensating movement, the cleaning cloth 10 can be guided particularly precisely along the contour of the obstacle, thereby ensuring cleaning right up to the obstacle. In this way, even corners / corners of the room can be reliably wiped and cleaned.

[0147] Additionally, the spring element 14 can be elastically pre-tensioned outward, in particular toward the first outer side 3E, whereby the cleaning cloth 10 can be held flat and, in particular, wrinkle-free. In the event of a collision with an obstacle, the spring element 14 can be bent against its pre-tension and / or pivoted by means of the joint 15. When contact with the obstacle is eliminated, the spring element 14 can automatically reset due to the pre-tension until the cleaning cloth 10 is held or tensioned flat and wrinkle-free again.

[0148] The preload can be generated by the spring element 14 itself, in particular the joint 15.

[0149] The spring element 14 is preferably pre-tensioned into a basic position in which the spring element 14 pulls the cleaning cloth 10 apart in the corner area 12, and in particular keeps it free of creases, and / or pushes the cleaning cloth 10 in the corner area 12 away from the main plane H. Starting from the basic position, the spring element 14 is pivotable in particular into a deflection position, as in Fig. 4 indicated by the dashed lines.

[0150] In the deflected position, the spring element 14 can be applied to and / or touch the base body 9. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning cloth 10 can be pulled apart in the corner area 12 less than in the home position, or not at all. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the spring element 14 can push the cleaning cloth 10 away from the main plane H less in the deflected position than in the home position.

[0151] If, during a cleaning process, an external force acts on the outer edge 11 of the cleaning cloth 10 in the area of ​​the spring element 14, for example because the spring element 14 comes into contact with an obstacle or a side wall bordering the cleaning surface F, such as a baseboard or end strip, the spring element 14 can be pivoted from its basic position towards its deflected position against the pretension by means of the joint 15 and / or bent due to its flexibility. In this way, a force directed outwards towards the outer edge 11 acts on the cleaning cloth 10. In this way, the spring element 14 and thus the cleaning cloth 10 can follow the course of the side wall, whereby a uniform and effective cleaning effect can be achieved even in corners of the cleaning surface F.At the same time, the cleaning cloth 10 is continuously pressed / pressed onto the cleaning surface F, ensuring sufficient pressure of the cleaning cloth 10 on the cleaning surface F for a good cleaning effect. Once contact with the obstacle or side wall is eliminated, the spring element 14 automatically pivots back to its home position due to its pretension, keeping the cleaning cloth wrinkle-free. Regardless of the degree of pivoting or bending of the spring element 14, it is always ensured that the cleaning cloth 10 is pressed against the cleaning surface F to ensure sufficient cleaning.

[0152] The joint 15 is preferably designed as a multifunctional part which, in addition to pivoting the spring element 14 relative to the base body 9, also preloads the spring element 14 into the basic position.

[0153] The spring element 14 can further be designed to lift the cleaning cloth 10. For this purpose, the spring element 14, in particular the joint 15, can be designed as a spring or comprise a spring and be shaped such that the spring element 14 has a stable and a metastable state in the manner of a click frog. In the stable state, the spring element 14 can press the cleaning cloth 10 from the main plane H towards the cleaning surface F. During the transition to the metastable state, the spring element 14 can be deformed, at least in sections, such that the cleaning cloth 10 is moved away from the cleaning surface F perpendicular to the main plane H, wherein the cleaning cloth 10 is lifted from the cleaning surface F and, in the metastable state, is held within or above the main plane H. In this way, it can be ensured that when driving over a carpet, the cleaning cloth 10, at least the corner region 12, does not come into contact with it.

[0154] The spring element 14, in particular the joint 15, designed as a spring, can be converted from the stable state to the metastable state and vice versa by applying a force. In particular, the spring element 14 can be converted selectively, manually, and / or automatically from the stable state to the metastable state and vice versa.

[0155] In the Fig. 6 In the embodiment shown, the spring element 14 is arranged along the rear edge 11B. Accordingly, this embodiment differs from that shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown embodiment only in the orientation of the spring element 14. Here too, the spring element 14 can follow the contour of an obstacle or a side wall, as already described above with regard to the embodiment of the Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 has been described.

[0156] In the Fig. 1 to Fig. 6In the embodiments shown, the wiping unit 2 preferably has a spring element 14.

[0157] Alternatively, it is also possible for the wiping unit 2 to have two spring elements 14, as Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 by way of example. The second spring element 14 can be assigned to the other corner region 12, the right one in the figures, which is formed between the rear edge 11B and the second side edge 11D. In this case, a spring element 14 is assigned to each corner region 12. It is also possible for the wiping unit 2 to have more than two spring elements 14.

[0158] In the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8In the embodiments shown, the wiping unit 2 has two spring elements 14, wherein the two spring elements 14 are assigned to the same corner region 12. By using a second spring element 14, a greater force can be transmitted to the cleaning cloth 10, whereby the cleaning cloth 10 can be pushed away from the main plane H with a particularly high force. At the same time, the effect of pulling the cleaning cloth 10 apart in the corner region 12 can be increased in this way.

[0159] In the Fig. 7 In the embodiment shown, the two spring elements 14 have, in their basic position, at least substantially the same orientation or longitudinal axes L arranged parallel to one another. The spring elements 14 can then be deflected, in particular, one after the other and / or together, as will be described in detail below.

[0160] How Fig. 7further shows, it is preferably provided that the spring elements 14 are arranged parallel to one another in their basic position.

[0161] The spring elements 14 can each have a different or the same length / extension along their longitudinal axis L.

[0162] Particularly preferably, the free ends 14C of the spring elements 14 each have the same distance from the rear edge 11B of the cleaning cloth 10 as Fig. 7 Alternatively, it is also possible for the free ends 14C to each have a different distance from the trailing edge 11B.

[0163] If, in the event of a collision with an obstacle, a force acting from the outside in the direction of the cleaning cloth 10 acts on the first side edge 11C parallel to the main plane H, the outer spring element 14, or the one arranged closer to the side edge 11C, can be pivoted and / or elastically bent from its basic position towards its deflected position. The spring element 14 can thereby come into contact with the other spring element 14, whereby the other spring element 14 can also be pivoted from its basic position towards its deflected position. The spring element 14 arranged closer to the side edge 11C can thus initially be pivoted alone and, after contact with the other spring element 14, together with the latter in the direction of the respective deflected position.

[0164] Alternatively, it is also possible to arrange the two spring elements 14 at a distance from each other such that both spring elements 14 can pivot independently of each other. In particular, the two spring elements 14 can be arranged such that contact or collision between the two spring elements 14 is excluded at all times.

[0165] In Fig. 8 another embodiment of the wiper unit 2 with two spring elements 14 is shown. Fig. 8 shows, the two spring elements 14 are arranged obliquely, in particular perpendicularly, to each other.

[0166] One spring element 14 preferably extends along the first side edge 11C. The other spring element 14 preferably extends along the rear edge 11B.

[0167] It is preferably provided that the two spring elements 14 in their basic position form an angle of at least substantially 90° relative to the main plane H. As Fig. 8 further shows, the two free ends 14C are preferably facing each other.

[0168] Both spring elements 14 press the corner region 12 against the cleaning surface F to ensure a good cleaning result. The spring element 14 arranged along the side edge 11C preferably pretensions the cleaning cloth 10 in a direction transverse to the main movement direction X and in particular parallel to the main plane H. At the same time, it is preferably provided that the spring element 14 arranged along the rear edge 11B pretensions the cleaning cloth 10 along the main movement direction X and in particular parallel to the main plane H.

[0169] If, for example, the cleaning device 1 travels against an obstacle or a side wall bordering the cleaning surface F in the opposite direction of movement X, the spring element 14 arranged along the rear edge 11B can be pivoted from its home position toward its deflected position. If the contact of the cleaning cloth 10 or the spring element 14 with the obstacle or the side wall is interrupted, for example, by moving the cleaning device 1 in the main direction of movement X, the spring element 14 can return to its home position, whereby the cleaning cloth 10 is pretensioned and held essentially flat.

[0170] If the side edge 11C or the spring element 14 arranged along the side edge 11C comes into contact with an obstacle or a side wall bordering the cleaning surface F, this spring element 14 can be pivoted from its home position toward its deflected position. Once the contact is terminated, the spring element 14 can pivot back to its home position, whereby the cleaning cloth 10 is pretensioned and kept essentially flat.

[0171] It is also possible that when pivoting one spring element 14, it comes into contact with the other spring element 14, so that further pivoting of the first spring element 14 causes simultaneous pivoting of the other spring element 14 until both spring elements 14 have each reached their deflection position.

[0172] In a further embodiment (not shown), the wiping unit 2 preferably has two spring elements 14, wherein one spring element 14 is arranged along the side edge 11C and the other spring element 14 is arranged along the rear edge 11B and the two spring elements 14 are coupled to one another at their free ends 14C.

[0173] It is then possible for one spring element 14 to be mounted for linear displacement in a slide rail, link, or recess running along the other spring element 14. In particular, the free end 14C of the spring element 14 arranged along the rear edge 11B is mounted for linear displacement in the slide rail of the other spring element 14. In this way, a coupled pivoting movement between the two spring elements 14 can be achieved, regardless of which spring element 14 is directly subjected to an external force. At the same time, the corner region 12 can be pushed away from the main plane H in a particularly uniform manner and / or pressed onto the cleaning surface F, whereby cleaning can be carried out in a particularly uniform and reliable manner.

[0174] In a further embodiment (not shown), the spring element 14 can be at least substantially arcuate, L-shaped, double-L-shaped, and / or U-shaped, wherein, in particular, the longitudinal axis L is correspondingly arcuate, L-shaped, double-L-shaped, and / or U-shaped. In particular, it is provided that the spring element 14 has at least two connection points with the base body 9. The connection points can each be realized by means of a joint 15.

[0175] If, for example, an L-shaped spring element 14 is provided, the spring element 14 can have a first spring element leg, to which a second spring element leg is connected at an angle in the longitudinal direction.

[0176] It is then preferably provided that the spring element 14 is elastically deformable, so that the shape and / or orientation of the spring element 14 can change due to a force acting on the spring element 14 from the outside along the main plane H in the event of a collision with an obstacle. For example, the angle between the two spring element legs of the spring element 14 can be elastically changed when the spring element 14 comes into contact with an obstacle and / or a side wall delimiting the cleaning surface F. Alternatively or additionally, at least one spring element leg of the spring element 14 can be elastically deformed. In this way, the spring element 14 and thus the cleaning cloth 10 can follow the contour of the side wall. The spring element 14 then continues to ensure that the cleaning cloth 10 is pressed onto the cleaning surface F despite the contact, whereby the overall cleaning can be improved.

[0177] At the same time, the spring element 14 and thus the cleaning cloth 10 can follow the contour of the side wall.

[0178] According to a further embodiment (not shown), a pressure element can be provided which presses the cleaning cloth 10 and / or the spring element 14 away from the main plane H and / or in the direction of the cleaning surface F or onto the cleaning surface F.

[0179] The pressure element can preferably be pretensioned into a basic position in which the pressure element presses the cleaning cloth 10 and / or the spring element 14 away from the main plane H, in particular in the direction of the cleaning surface F. Preferably, the pressure element can be pivoted or transferred from the basic position into a rest position in which the pressure element exerts no pressure on the cleaning cloth 10 and / or the spring element 14. In the rest position, the pressure element can bear against an outer side, in particular the rear side 3D, the first outer side 3E and / or the second outer side 3F and / or can be arranged at least substantially parallel to the rear side 3D, the first outer side 3E and / or the second outer side 3F.

[0180] The pressure element can be pivoted or moved from its home position to its rest position by means of an automatically and / or manually activated mechanism. For example, the pressure element can be moved to its rest position when a force acting externally on the spring element 14 reaches and / or exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

[0181] The printing element is preferably not connected to the cleaning cloth 10.

[0182] By means of the pressure element, a pressure force can be set on the cleaning cloth 10 which only acts temporarily for corner cleaning.

[0183] The pressure element can then, for example, be selectively pivoted into the home position if cleaning is to be carried out by means of the wiping unit 2 and / or cleaning of a corner of the cleaning surface F.

[0184] After completion of the cleaning process in the area of ​​the corner of the cleaning surface F, the pressure element can be adjusted to the rest position in order to simplify the navigation of the cleaning device 1.

[0185] In a further embodiment (not shown), the wiping unit 2 can have a plurality of spring elements 14. The spring elements 14 can be stacked fan-like and / or connected to the base body 9 via a common joint 15.

[0186] The spring elements 14 can be fanned out in the basic position and do not overlap or overlap only slightly with respect to a plane transverse, in particular perpendicular to the main plane H.

[0187] When transferred to the deflected position, the spring elements 14 can be pushed over one another at least partially or in sections. In particular, the spring elements 14 can have a greater overlap than in the home position.

[0188] The spring elements 14 can be designed and / or arranged such that the free end 14C of each or a single spring element 14 is / are slightly raised in the deflected position. The term "raising" is understood here to mean a movement perpendicular to the main plane H in the direction of the upper side 3B of the housing 3. In this way, the cleaning cloth 10 can be raised or the force acting on the cleaning cloth 10 perpendicular to the main plane H can be reduced.

[0189] In a further embodiment (not shown), the spring element 14 can have a bristle tuft with multiple bristles at its free end 14C or can be formed by a bristle tuft with multiple bristles. The bristles can exert a force transverse to the main plane H on the cleaning cloth 10, so that the cleaning cloth 10 is pushed away from the main plane H, thereby pressing the cleaning cloth 10 onto the cleaning surface F.

[0190] The bristles can pivot in the horizontal direction, in particular elastically, when a force acts from outside on the outer edge 11 along the main plane H, whereby after the force is removed the cleaning cloth 10, in particular the corner area 12, can be pulled apart again by a resetting of the bristles.

[0191] According to a further embodiment (not shown), the spring element 14 can be plate-shaped. Due to the connection to the cleaning cloth 10, the plate-shaped spring element 14 can be elastically bent in sections in its home position, in particular vertically upward, so that the free end 14C points upward and / or is bent upward. Preferably, the spring element 14 is preloaded in its home position.

[0192] If the spring element 14 now collides with an obstacle and / or a side wall delimiting the cleaning surface F, the spring element 14 can be further elastically deformed and transferred into its deflected position, whereby the free end 14C can be further raised. After the collision, the spring element 14 can return to its basic position.

[0193] Individual aspects, features and method steps or variants of the present invention can be implemented independently of one another, but also in any combination or sequence. List of reference symbols: 1 cleaning device 11 outer edge 2 Wiper unit 11A leading edge 3 Housing 11B trailing edge 3A bottom 11C side edge 3B Top 11D side edge 3C front 12 Corner area 3D back 13 Humidification device 3E outside 14 spring element 3F outside 14A leg 4 wheel 14B leg 5 Navigation device 14C Free end 6 Data processing facility 15 joint 7 Control device 8 Intake opening F Cleaning area 9 Basic body H Main level 9A bottom L Longitudinal axis 9B Top X Main direction of movement 10 cleaning cloth

Claims

1. A wiping unit (2) for a cleaning device (1), in particular a cleaning robot, wherein the wiping unit (2) comprises a base body (9) and a cleaning cloth (10) attached to the base body (9), characterized by that the wiping unit (2) has a spring element (14), wherein the spring element (14) is fastened to the base body (9) and projects into a corner region (12) of the cleaning cloth (10).

2. Wiper unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the cleaning cloth (10), in particular the corner area (12), protrudes beyond the base body (9).

3. Wiper unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the spring element (14) presses against the cleaning cloth (10) in the corner area (12) and / or is pre-tensioned by means of the cleaning cloth (10).

4. Wiper unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side of the base body (9) facing the cleaning cloth (10) defines a main plane (H).

5. Wiper unit according to claim 4, characterized in that the spring element (14) extends beyond the main plane (H) and / or is offset from the main plane (H), in particular such that the spring element (14) is pretensioned perpendicular to the main plane (H) and / or presses the cleaning cloth (10) away from the main plane (H) in the corner region (12).

6. Wiper unit according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the spring element (14) is pre-tensioned parallel to the main plane (H) and / or that the spring element (14) pulls the cleaning cloth (10) apart in the corner area (12).

7. Wiper unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring element (14), in particular a free end (14C) of the spring element (14), is positively, non-positively and / or materially connected to the cleaning cloth (10) and / or engages in a receptacle of the cleaning cloth (10).

8. Wiper unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe wiping unit (2), in particular the spring element (14), has a joint (15), wherein the spring element (14) is connected to the base body (9) by means of the joint (15).

9. Wiper unit according to claim 8, characterized in that the spring element (14) can be pivoted by means of the joint (15) and / or can be applied to the base body (9).

10. Wiper unit according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the joint (15) is designed as a film hinge.

11. Wiper unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (9) and the spring element (14) are formed in one piece, preferably wherein the spring element (14) is more flexible than the base body (9).

12. Wiper unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wiping unit (2) has two spring elements (14).

13. Wiper unit according to claim 12, characterized by, the spring elements (14) are attached to the base body (9) offset from one another and / or protrude into the corner area (12) from different directions.

14. Wiper unit according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by , the spring elements (14) are placed on top of one another in a fan-like manner and / or are connected to the base body (9) via a common joint (15).

15. Cleaning device, in particular a cleaning robot, with a wiping unit (2) for wet wiping a cleaning surface (F), characterized by that the wiping unit (2) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

Images